Operating a PWC

In North Carolina, these are the operating laws for PWC.

• It is illegal to operate a PWC between sunset and sunrise.
• PWC must be operated in a reasonable and prudent manner at all times. It is illegal to operate in a reckless manner; for example, it is illegal to:
  • Weave your PWC through congested traffic.
  • Jump the wake of another vessel within 100 feet to the other vessel or when visibility around the other vessel is restricted.
  • Approach another vessel intentionally and swerve at the last possible moment in order to avoid collision.
  • Operate contrary to the navigation rules given in Unit 3.
  • Follow another vessel too closely. Following too closely means traveling at a speed over 10 miles per hour, in the same direction as the other vessel, and within 100 feet behind or within 50 feet to the side of the other vessel. An exception to this law is made when operating in a narrow channel, in which case PWC may operate at the speed and flow of other traffic.
  • Operate at more than “no wake speed” within 100 feet of anchored or moored vessels, a boat ramp, a dock, a pier, a swim float, a marked swimming area, swimmers, surfers, persons fishing, or any manually propelled vessel.
• It is illegal to chase, harass, or disturb wildlife with your PWC.